Videos from the octopus' garden

Somebody forgot to tell me to bring an octopus to MATS. No, it wouldn't be for some strange vendor over in the back corner; it would be to help me manage the "must haves" that a reporter carries to cover the events, announcements and products at trucking's flagship event. I wish I had eight arms.

We in the press pool have our notebooks, cameras, press kits, swag bags, water bottles and backpacks to name a few. But we're OK with it as long as we can get an arm free for a handshake or hug. We are remarkably efficient, actually.

With camera in hand, I ventured out into MATS world the past couple of days to capture some flavor. During a limited amount of free time, I've been able to upload a few vids. Here's a bit about what I have been able to capture so far.

Arrow Truck Sales announced their Back On The Road winner, a very deserving David Acosta of Orlando, FL. From the emotion displayed at the big reveal (it was a total surprise to David), the Acosta family is going to make the most of this second chance. Click here to watch the video.

All aboard for "Extra Credit." The students from Clarion County Career Center brought their show-quality truck, Extra Credit, and it's a beauty. In this video, a group of students and instructor Don Doverspike pose for a photo by Land Line Magazine Field Editor Suzanne Stempinski. Way to go guys. You deserve all of the extra credit you are getting.

We were treated to a Mack attack the morning of March 31. Mack Trucks raised some eyebrows by announcing they've improved fuel economy by 12.5 percent. Here's video of the announcement.

Speaking of fuel savings, aerodynamics is playing the biggest role it's ever played in trucking. Volvo's Frank Bio explains in this video some of the company's enhancements in that area.

How about a little wow factor? Here's a 20-second clip of an International LoneStar by Navistar. Love the color.

We can always use some more show trucks. Here's a quick walk-through of the past Big Rig Build Off winners in the show lot. I'm looking forward to a lot more time out in the lot later today.

Keep an eye out for more videos on Land Line Magazine's Youtube channel.

Well, there's seven links. This octopus still has one arm to spare for a hearty handshake out in the lot.